Getting Help For Real Warriors

Think of it as an integrated marketing campaign around a social good initiative—where the sum of its efforts are greater than the individual parts—seamlessly integrating Internet content, videos, social media, (Twitter, Facebook), free print resources, and a photo-sharing mobile application. The campaign’s social media channels alone garner more than 160,000 fans and followers.

It also puts care resources at the fingertips of service members. Content shared by the campaign includes ways for audiences to seek care or learn about additional support resources, including the DCoE Outreach Center, the Military Crisis Line, TRICARE, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). But it goes further than that. The campaign also fosters an important virtual connection—a digital community of camaraderie and endless support.  

Videos are the heart of the campaign, as real stories of those who sought care strike a personal chord with the target audience—18- to 29-year-old service members. These videos demonstrate that people just like them are getting treatment and are still able to progress in their careers and succeed in life. Viewable via the campaign’s website, videos are accessible any time, from any location, including overseas via the American Forces Radio Television Service. 

They show that reaching out is a sign of strength. 

“The people sharing their profiles through this campaign are proving, through example, that service members are going on to have successful careers in the military after seeking care. They’re better family members and they’re better warriors for getting the help they needed,” says Katie. “Service members wanted to see themselves, and they wanted to see success. They don’t just want to hear that seeking care worked.” 

The videos are intensely personal, and explore the complex emotions surrounding combat stress and other mental health concerns. It goes without saying that it takes incredible courage to openly share these stories. 

Simon shared his personal account, which is featured on the campaign’s website and demonstrated how by opening up and seeking help, he was able to turn his life back around. 

“It’s therapeutic,” says Lt. Col. Chris Curtin in the same video. “I think by talking about it, it helps. On the flip side, the Marines he’s talking to benefit as well. If he can talk about this, then [they think], ‘There is nothing that can stop me from doing it as well.’”